All Around Old Bridge August 2026

OLDBRIDGE ALL AROUND

VOL 14, NO 9

A Publication for the community of Old Bridge

OB TEEN IS SALTWATER DAY AT OB WATER FRONT ONE STEP fun-filled community celebration that has become a beloved summer tradition for residents CLOSER ON and visitors alike.

Saltwater Day offers something A LIFELONG for everyone! Stroll through a diverse marketplace featuring DREAM vendors offering toys, face paintOld Bridge is excited to announce the return of its annual Saltwater Day Festival on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the beautiful Old Bridge resident and Red Bank Catholic student Avery Owens is one step closer to achieving a lifelong dream. Out of more than 300 applicants from around the world, Avery was selected as one of only 30 finalists in the prestigious Junior Starduster Competition at New York City’s iconic Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The competition gives talented young performers the opportunity to showcase their vocal abilities on the famous Stardust stage, where countless Broadway performers have launched their careers.

For Avery, performing at Ellen’s Stardust Diner has been a dream for years. Inspired by the restaurant’s legendary singing waitstaff—many of whom have gone on to successful Broadway careers—she has always hoped for the chance to stand on that stage herself.

A dedicated performer, Avery Continue on page 11

Old Bridge Waterfront Park in Laurence Harbor. A rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, August 9, 2026.

Admission is FREE for this

ing, henna art, jewelry, handmade crafts, clothing, hats, handbags, sunglasses, homemade dog treats, and much more.

Children will enjoy hours of excitement with mechanical rides, bounce attractions, obstacle courses, and interactive adventures designed for all ages.

Continue on page 12

RT 35 IS RENAMED TO HONOR U.S. ARMY SOLDIERS.

Laurence Harbor residents James Francisco and Walter Schmidt were killed in Vietnam in the late 1960s, while serving with the U.S. Army.

The highway will be renamed to honor U.S. Army soldiers James Leonard Francisco and Walter James Schmidt.

Both are from Laurence Harbor

and were killed in South Vietnam in the late '60s.

Francisco enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968 at the age of 20 years old. He served as a light weapons infantryman with the 9th Infantry Division. On Feb. 5, 1969, he was killed in action in South Vietnam.

He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

On Nov. 8, 1966, at the age of 22, Schmidt's unit was participating in Operation Attleboro when it was suddenly and violently attacked by two Viet Cong main force regiments. Schmidt was serving on a machine gun crew and continued firing at the insurgents until he was mortally wounded by hostile small arms fire and hand grenades. He was awarded a Silver Star for his valor.

The legislation to rename Rt. 35 was sponsored by Assemblymen Rob Clifton and Alex Sauickie, and state Sen. Owen Henry sponsored the companion legislation in the New Jersey Senate. All are Republican. The two pieces of legislation were signed into law this week.

Continue on page 15

AUGUST 2026

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AUGUST 2026

MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER Dear Old Bridge Residents, I hope you are enjoying your summer! Throughout the summer months, there is much to see and do here In Old Bridge Township.

For great family and friend Debbie outings, please visit our local Walker parks and fields for some outdoor recreation. We have fantastic outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy.

As a reminder, the Old Bridge Public Library is a cooling center, charging station, and hydration station during its regular business hours. For more information on cooling centers in New Jersey, please call 211, text your zip code to 898211, or visit nj211.org.

Need help with your energy bills? Representatives from JCP&L will be at the Old Bridge Administration Building on Thursday, August 13th from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to assist residents with applications for the Universal Service Fund (USF) and provide information about a variety of energy bill assistance programs. Appointments are required. To schedule a visit, contact Silver Linings at Old Bridge by calling (732) 7215600, x6600. For additional information about the Universal Service Fund program,

email NJEAOT@firstenergycorp.com or contact Silver Linings at Old Bridge for assistance.

The Silver Linings Center continues to develop new and exciting social, wellness and lifestyle programs to service the seniors of our community. A full calendar of activities is planned for August 2026.

If interested in joining the fun, call 732721-5600 x6600 to set up an appointment to register, or visit the Township website at oldbridge.com/silverlinings for more information. The Silver Linings Center also provides services including a senior lunch program, transportation, guidance with healthcare and pharmaceutical plans, and so much more.

The Old Bridge Township Police Department will host its 4th annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4th from 6pm to 9pm in the Municipal Complex parking lot. Come meet and interact with the officers of the police department, the fire department, EMS and OEM, learn about the many vehicles they will have on display, and participate in various activities such as face painting, bounce house, giveaways and demonstrations. There will also be food, ice cream, and music. The Old Bridge Food Bank will also be accepting monetary Continue on page 11

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YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON

By Senator Owen Henry

Dear Old Bridge Residents, Governor Sherrill’s budget was yet another collection of broken promises. It increased state spending by more than $2 billion while failing to address the school funding shortages that continue to push the burden onto local property taxpayers. Communities like Old Bridge are being asked to do more with less, while state spending grows everywhere except where it is truly needed. Ignoring this problem only forces families to shoulder higher property taxes to compensate for the state’s inaction.

The budget also failed to restore the Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment (COLA) for law enforcement retirees — a commitment that should never have been abandoned, especially as inflation continues to strain household budgets. Instead of prioritizing relief for taxpayers and retirees, the budget included hundreds of millions of dollars in political pork spending directed to Newark, Jersey City, and Paterson, cities with long histories of fiscal mismanagement.

These allocations came at the expense of

responsible communities like Old Bridge, which continue to be shortchanged despite demonstrating sound governance.

New Jersey deserves better. Our residents deserve a budget that is transparent, responsible, and focused on real community needs. My vote against this budget reflects my commitment to protecting taxpayers, supporting our schools, and standing up for municipalities like Old Bridge that have been overlooked for far too long. I will continue fighting for a funding model rooted in accountability, fairness, and the future of our children.

With deepest respect and gratitude, Senator Owen Henry

AUGUST 2026

TELL US YOUR STORY! In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the renaming of the town to Old Bridge, and the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Old Bridge Public Library aims to create a piece of history of our own.

We’re looking for members of our community to share their favorite Old Bridge memories for inclusion in a community memory book!

Did you spend weekends at Raceway Park and captured those moments in photos? Do you have a treasured family

recipe made with fruit picked from Old Bridge farms? Perhaps you have a story, photograph, tradition, or memory that reflects life in Old Bridge through the years.

We’d love to hear from you! Help us preserve the stories, experiences, and traditions that make Old Bridge special by sharing your memories with us.

For additional information please go to https://oldbridgelibrary.org/america250/ story/ or email us at stories@ oldbridgepubliclibrary.org

NEW JERSEY'S NEW E-BIKE & SCOOTER REGULATIONS ARE NOW IN EFFECT REQUIRING RIDERS TO BE AT LEAST 15 YEARS OLD, HOLD A LICENSE, AND REGISTER THEIR VEHICLES. VISIT THE NJMVC’S RESOURCES VIA THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.NJ.GOV/MVC/VEHICLETOPICS/EBIKE.HTM

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AUGUST 2026

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR REPORT

In late July, the Township of Old Bridge mailed 2026 final property tax bills to all property owners.

As residents begin receiving their bills, we understand that property taxes are one of the most significant household Anahita Feltz expenses, and it is importBusiness ant that our community Administrator understands how those tax dollars are allocated.

This year's municipal budget was developed in an exceptionally challenging financial environment, with significant increases in health insurance premiums, utility and fuel costs, pension obligations, and contractual expenses placing added pressure on Township operations. Throughout the budget process, the Administration conducted a comprehensive review of every departmental budget, working closely with department directors and the finance team to identify efficiencies and make strategic reductions wherever possible. Despite these challenges, the Township was able to control costs, close budget gaps, and maintain the high level of services residents rely on every day. This disciplined and fiscally responsible approach ensures that

taxpayer dollars continue to be invested wisely while maintaining the essential services that support our community.

One of the most common misconceptions is that the Township controls the entire property tax bill. In reality, the municipal portion represents only approximately 15% of the total property tax rate and is the only portion that Township officials directly control. The remaining 85% funds local schools, Middlesex County, the County Open Space Trust Fund, the Library, and local fire districts.

For 2026, the largest increase in the overall tax rate came from the school tax levy, followed by the library and county open space taxes. The municipal tax rate increased by 2.43%, while the county tax increased by 0.28%.

The municipal portion of your tax bill funds many of the essential services residents rely on every day, including police protection, emergency management, road maintenance, snow removal, recycling, parks and recreation, senior services, code enforcement, engineering, planning and zoning, and many other programs that contribute to the quality of life in Old Bridge.

Residents are reminded that property tax bills are mailed only once each year and Continue on page 15

Home Ownership is Within Reach For 138 years, Amboy has been putting New Jersey communities first. As America celebrates 250 years of opportunity, we’re proud to help our neighbors achieve their homeownership goals with special programs designed to make buying your first home more affordable.

Family Helping Hand Mortgage With Amboy’s Family Helping Hand Mortgage, a family member can pledge an Amboy deposit to help you reach a 20% down payment towards your first home and avoid PMI payments.

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Call 800.942.6269 | Visit AmboyBank.com | Visit a branch First-time homebuyers and first lien positions only. Available for 1-4 family, owner occupied homes with a minimum of $50,000 and a maximum of $625,000. Approved applicants responsible at closing for funding interim interest and escrow account for property taxes and insurance. Subject to credit approvals and home appraisal. Additional terms and conditions and closing costs may apply. One or more persons can use their deposit as collateral to reduce down payment requirement and must be kept on deposit until homeowner(s) has 78% loan-to-value.

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AUGUST 2026

LET’S HAVE A CONVERSATION

THE SPIRITUAL PRESENCE OF SUMMER

Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge

By David Boles, Marketing Director, Reformed Church Home

It does not take much to spark disagreement. An online comment, a headline, or even a casual remark can quickly turn into conflict.

Opinions are shared and the temptation is often to defend our own viewpoint rather than seek to understand someone else's.

Living in an age of constant information means we are surrounded by opportunities to debate. Healthy discussion can sharpen our thinking and help us grow. Yet meaningful conversations become difficult when we stop listening, assume the worst of others, or feel the need to have the last word.

A productive conversation begins with a willingness to listen before responding.

It asks thoughtful questions rather than rushing to conclusions. It recognizes that understanding often takes time and that not every disagreement must be settled in a single conversation. Humility allows us to learn, even from those with whom we disagree, while holding firmly to our convictions.

Each day, as I drive to work and return home, I see the abundant spirit of summer expressed in the flourishing parks, trees, flowers, and gardens throughout Old Bridge. During my day at Reformed Church Home, I experience that same spirit in the compassion, kindness, and dignity with which our staff surround residents and their families.

Summer offers reminders of renewal, belonging, and the importance of caring for one another. A garden flourishes when each plant receives the nourishment and attention it needs. In much the same way, a senior living community flourishes when every resident is recognized as an individual—with a lifetime of experiences, relationships, traditions, interests, and gifts.

Spiritual care does not look exactly the same for everyone. For some, it is grounded in worship, prayer, and religious tradition. Others experience it through friendship, music, nature, service, reflection, or a quiet moment of gratitude. Often, its presence is revealed in simple acts: listening patiently, offering an encouraging word, sharing a smile, or

As Christians, we believe truth is not something we create but something we discover in God. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Because of that, we can approach conversations with confidence and grace, trusting that truth does not depend on winning an argument.

Our goal is not simply to persuade but to reflect the character of Christ.

A few years ago, I approached a group of protesters outside a county courthouse and said, “I'd love to hear your point of view.”

Their response was, “We're done talking.”

That brief exchange has stayed with me.

When conversation ends, understanding rarely begins. While we won’t always agree, we can choose to listen well, speak with kindness, and point others to the One who is truth itself. In a world quick to argue, may we be known for wisdom, humility, and love.

taking extra time to help someone feel comfortable and understood.

Whether a person comes to Reformed Church Home for assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or a respite stay, our goal is to support the whole person.

Professional expertise is essential, but so are trust, personal attention, and the reassuring knowledge that someone genuinely cares.

Families, too, become part of our circle of care. We understand that changing needs may bring uncertainty and difficult decisions. Our staff strive to be a steady, helpful presence—answering questions, offering guidance, and keeping families meaningfully connected.

Like the warmth of summer sunlight, compassionate care can lift the spirit.

At Reformed Church Home, we seek opportunities each day to help residents and families feel welcomed, valued, supported, and at home.

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AUGUST 2026

URGENT CARE OR EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT? KNOWING WHICH IS BEST IF YOU’RE ILL OR INJURED CAN CONTAIN DAMAGE AND EVEN SAVE YOUR LIFE. Patricia Carroll, President, Chief Hospital Executive, Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center

It happens every day: people get injured, feel unwell, or experience scary symptoms.

Many debate whether to go to the nearest urgent care clinic, or to a hospital emergency department.

Knowing the difference between each facility’s role–and the level of diagnosis and care they can offer– can spare you the anxiety, and perhaps even risk to your health, of trying to make this decision when you need immediate medical attention.

The most significant distinction between an emergency department (ED) and an urgent care center lies in the severity of the conditions they are equipped to handle.

Urgent care centers can be an excellent resource for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention.

Think of them for issues like colds, the flu, minor cuts that may need stitches, sprains, and mild asthma flare-ups. They are a step

above your primary care physician's office for immediate needs but are not designed for major medical emergencies.

Emergency departments, like the one at Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, are staffed and equipped for life-threatening and limb-threatening situations, as well as less serious conditions that nonetheless may require state-of-theart diagnostic tools and treatments.

Our teams of emergency physicians, who undergo extensive residency training, are skilled in a wide range of life-saving procedures. They are experts in emergent cardiovascular care, trauma stabilization, and can handle everything from heart attacks and strokes to severe injuries. With 24/7 access to advanced diagnostic tools, surgical suites, and the full resources of the hospital, the ED is prepared for the most critical medical events.

Those include: • Chest pain or pressure • Difficulty breathing • Weakness, numbness, or drooping on one side of the body • Severe, sudden headache

• Severe abdominal pain Do not hesitate to call 911, which often is f ar better than being driven, and certainly than driving yourself, to the hospital.

“As part of a hospital, emergency departments have immediate access to advanced diagnostic imaging, laboratory testing, surgical services, and specialists across multiple disciplines,” says Dr. Patrick Rogers, Emergency Medicine Chair and Medical Director at Raritan Bay Medical Center and Old Bridge Medical Center.

“This allows medical teams to rapidly evaluate and treat time-sensitive conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, severe trauma, and other life-threatening emergencies. While urgent care centers are well-suited for minor illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention, emergency departments are designed to provide comprehensive, lifesaving care for any medical condition.”

For children with a common cold, a low-grade fever, or a small scrape, a pediatrician or an urgent care center is a good choice. When there is a high fever with a rash, shortness of breath, a seizure, or a sig-

nificant injury, the emergency department is the safest place to be. It is always better to be cautious and seek emergency care.

Similarly, individuals with chronic illnesses like asthma or diabetes should have a clear plan. A mild flare-up might be managed at an urgent care center, but a severe asthma attack or a diabetic emergency requires the comprehensive capabilities of an ED. It bears repeating that for any potentially life-threatening symptom, call 911. Paramedics can begin critical, life-saving treatment in the ambulance, and they can notify the hospital of your arrival, allowing our team to prepare. Those first few minutes can make all the difference.

Our goal at Old Bridge Medical Center is to ensure every member of our community feels empowered to make the best decisions for their health. For those "gray area" symptoms where you're unsure, it is always better to be safe and head to the ED. The dedicated team in our Emergency Department is here for you, ready to provide expert, compassionate care, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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David Lee Hernandez Jr., Executive Director, NJ Lic No. 4626

AUGUST 2026

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AUGUST 2026

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AUGUST 2026

FLOW STATE ON THE SAT

By Paul Pscolka

It was our best performance. When pitching, the strike zone seemed bigger. Our thoughts were crystal clear when taking that test. On stage, we hit every emotion-filled note.

We’ve all experienced a flow state. It is when we are completely immersed in a task. Students in flow think more clearly, make fewer careless mistakes and feel less anxious. This state can be developed intentionally when preparing for the SAT. To experience flow, students must practice consistently. Last-minute crams are not effective. When studying, the environment must be free of distraction—no TV. No phone.

Choice of material can also be important.

Material should be challenging—slightly over the student’s ability. More than that could be overwhelming and counterproductive. Timed sections (and tests) are needed for pacing. Mock tests will simulate testing conditions best. One of the biggest mistakes that students make, though, is continually taking tests without learning

from their mistakes. After each test, students should review—know exactly why they had each question wrong and exactly what the fix is. Practicing this repeatedly will make solving SAT questions automatic.

On test day, students should be calm, focused, and confident. Deep breaths and positive self-talk help. 100% focus should be given to the question at hand. Not the clock. Not the last question. Not even your score. It is important to maintain momentum. The SAT is difficult. Students will get stuck. It is crucial to pick the best answer and keep moving. Each question is an individual challenge, and students should think of it as such, not as a long exam. Trust preparation. Don’t second guess.

Flow isn’t achieved by luck. It is the result of proper preparation and mindset. The SAT rewards sustained concentration, not perfection. When a student is fully engaged with one question at a time, peak performance naturally flows.

Interested in flowing? Book a free consultation with me here: https://www.ivymasters. com/free-consultation

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AUGUST 2026

MESSAGE BY MAYOR WALKER

OB TEEN IS ONE STEP CLOSER Continued from page 3 ON A LIFELONG DREAM contributions, along with donations of rides, entertainment, food, and conclude Continued from page 1 non-perishable food items and toiletries, to assist Old Bridge families in need. Visit the food bank’s tent to donate or to learn more about our services. We hope to see you there.

The Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to announce our annual Saltwater Day which will take place on Saturday, August 8th from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

This event will have arts, crafts, vendors,

with fireworks. Live music will be played throughout the day. For our 21 and older guests, the Laurence Harbor Fire Department will be hosting a beer garden, proof of age required. The rain date for this event will be Sunday, August 9th.

As you enjoy the remainder of your summer, please continue to be safe and stay well.

Mayor Debbie Walker

is a student at Red Bank Catholic High School, where she is actively involved in the performing arts. She has appeared in numerous theatrical productions and continues to pursue her passion for singing, acting, and musical theater. Her hard work, dedication, and love for performing earned her this incredible opportunity.

This week, Avery will travel to New York City to perform alongside 29 other exceptionally talented finalists in the Junior Starduster Competition, representing young performers from across the globe.

She performed before a distinguished panel of five prestigious judges with extensive Broadway credits and professional

theater backgrounds, as well as Ellen Hart, the owner and founder of Ellen’s Stardust Diner. For a young performer with Broadway aspirations, the opportunity to sing before such an accomplished panel was an unforgettable experience and a milestone in her theatrical journey.

Simply being selected as one of the top 30 contestants from more than 300 applicants is a remarkable achievement and a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for the arts.

Her family, friends, teachers, and community are incredibly proud of her accomplishment and look forward to watching her continue to pursue her dreams on stage.

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SILVER LININGS NEWS

By Kristin Agunbiade, Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge As August arrives, Silver Linings at Old Bridge is wrapping up another memorable summer with a full calendar of exciting programs, special events, and opportunities to connect with friends old and new. We invite Old Bridge residents 60 years old and older to discover everything happening at Silver Linings this month.

One of our most anticipated highlights is the conclusion of our Memoir Writing Class. Participants have spent weeks capturing treasured memories, life lessons, and personal experiences. Everyone is invited to attend the Memoir Showcase, where these talented writers will share excerpts from their heartfelt stories.

Silver Linings is also proud to partner with the Old Bridge Library on a special community project celebrating Old Bridge’s 50th anniversary. Long-time residents are invited to share their personal memories of life in Old Bridge through interviews conducted by student volunteers at the library.

Selected stories may be featured as part of

this meaningful celebration, preserving our community’s history for future generations.

Fitness enthusiasts, join us for a boxing demonstration for National Wellness Month, and celebrate movement during our lively Zumba Day celebration!

Members can also attend a Cyber Security and Fraud Prevention seminar presented by local students, offering practical tips to stay safe in today’s digital world.

We’re thrilled to welcome back Grandparents Week, a cherished Silver Linings tradition where members can bring their grandchildren to enjoy special activities together, including an exciting live animal show for all ages!

Sports fans won’t want to miss our exclusive Silver Linings Night at the Ballpark, generously hosted by the Candied Ham Softball Team, or cheer on our pool players during a friendly billiards scrimmage between Old Bridge and Woodbridge.

For those feeling lucky, we’ll also be heading back to Resorts Casino in Atlantic City before ending the month with our biggest celebration of the summer – the annual Silver Linings Luau at Palms Plaza Continue on page 15

AUGUST 2026

SALTWATER DAY AT OB WATER FRONT

Continued from page 1

Bring your appetite and stay for lunch or dinner! Our carefully selected food vendors and food trucks will be serving a wide variety of delicious favorites, including BBQ, seafood, Greek specialties, Latin cuisine, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Be sure to save room for dessert, with festival favorites including ice cream, Italian ice, zeppoles, and other sweet treats.

The Laurence Harbor Fire Department will once again host its popular Beer Garden, featuring $10 souvenir mugs and $2 refill tickets. Guests can relax, enjoy great food and drinks, and dance the evening away to live music.

Live Entertainment The Get Down Committee 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM Featuring five decades of unforgettable dance hits and crowd-pleasing favorites.

Gratefulmen 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM Performing the music of the Grateful Dead and the Jerry Garcia Band.

The evening concludes with the annual Saltwater Day Fireworks Spectacular, lighting up the waterfront beginning at

9:30 PM. This year’s fireworks display is made possible in part through the generous support of Old Bridge Minerals and Sayerwood South Little League.

Businesses interested in helping support the fireworks display are encouraged to participate. Sponsors will receive recognition on Township websites, social media platforms, and promotional advertising.

Parking and Shuttle Information There is no on-site parking available at the event.

Visitors are encouraged to check the Township website and the Saltwater Day Facebook page for the latest information regarding parking, shuttle schedules, and event updates. Shuttle schedules and pickup locations will be posted by August 1, 2026.

Shuttle service will be available from: • Cheesequake Village • Metro Park South • Memorial School • Divers Cove Parking Lot Additional parking will be available at Saint Laurence Church after 6:00 PM.

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AUGUST 2026

OLD BRIDGE TOWNSHIP MARKED A HISTORIC MILESTONE On Sunday, July 19th as residents gathered to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary with a full day of patriotic festivities, educational activities, and an unforgettable evening drone light show that brought the community together in honor of America.

The celebration began at Cottrell Farm Park, where the Township partnered with Old Bridge Public Schools to host the America 250 Community Celebration.

Families enjoyed a variety of activities highlighting the nation's history, including patriotic artwork created by local students, colonial-era games, opportunities to sign a replica Declaration of Independence, food vendors, and interactive experiences

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designed for residents of all ages. The Thomas Warne Museum also participated, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the historic Cottrell House and the history of Old Bridge as they toured the home. The event showcased the importance of preserving our history while inspiring future generations to appreciate the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today. Seeing families, neighbors, and visitors come together in such a meaningful way was a testament to the strong sense of community that defines Old Bridge.

As the sun set, the celebration continued at Mannino Park, where thousands gathered for an evening of entertainment

featuring food trucks, a live DJ, family-friendly activities, and patriotic music before the highlight of the night—a spectacular drone light show. Beginning shortly after 9:15 p.m., 200 synchronized drones illuminated the night sky with vibrant patriotic imagery and animated tributes celebrating 250 years of American history. The remarkable performance captivated spectators and served as a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to honoring the nation's past while looking toward its future.

The Township also recognized the many volunteers, employees, and community organizations whose efforts helped make the event possible. Special appreciation was extended to event sponsors Hackensack

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Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, Elizabeth's Italian Restaurant/Mezcal, and Amboy Bank for their generous support of the celebration, and for their sponsorships of the drone show.

Township officials said the day's events reflected Old Bridge's commitment to fostering community engagement while honoring the values that have shaped the nation over the past 250 years. From patriotic student artwork and historical activities to an innovative aerial tribute lighting up the night sky, Old Bridge's America 250 celebration showcased the township's pride in its history, appreciation for its residents, and optimism for the future.

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AUGUST 2026

IN MEMORIAM Bob Wyshynski

Wyvinia P. Vergara

January 21, 1947 - July 20, 2026

April 23, 1943 - July 8, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

Mary Mirando

Peter Kemprowski

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

December 25, 1933 - July 12, 2026

July 22, 1959 - July 20, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Carmen Rodriguez August 8, 1947 - July 5, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Cy Borretsky August 11, 1942 - July 9, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Rose Formica February 19, 1939- July 17, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Frank Figliolino January 6, 1929 - July 4, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Edwin Nieves December 27, 1958 - July 9, 2026

Natalie Paszek March 15, 1929 - July 16, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT BEDLE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE 2350 Route 516 Old Bridge, NJ 08857 (732) 607-9500 OldBridgefh.com

Mary Beth Wilson July 19, 1954 - July 2, 2026

SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME 501 Highway 79 Morganville, NJ 07751 (732) 566-5300 Waittfh.com

212 Main Street Matawan, NJ 07747 (732) 566-1962 BedleFuneralhome.com

VISIT WWW.OLDBRIDGEFH.COM FOR ADDITIONAL OBITUARIES

Michael V. Grandi Manager, NJ Lic. No. 4427

Old Bridge PBA 127A

GOLF OUTING

Monday, September 28, 2026 (Rain Date: October 5th)

Old Bridge Golf Club The Rose 157 Lambertson Rd. Matawan, NJ 07747

$200 per golfer $800 per foursome

9 AM Check-In 11 AM Shotgun Start

Dinner to follow at The Grand Marquis 1550 Route 9 South Old Bridge, NJ 08857

15 ALL AROUND PUBLICATIONS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 888-523-4331

AUGUST 2026

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR REPORT RT 35 IS RENAMED TO HONOR Continued from page 5 U.S. ARMY SOLDIERS.

include payment stubs for all four quarterly installments. Please retain the remaining stubs for future payments. Taxes are due on February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1, with a ten-day grace period. Please note that we will be extending the grace period to August 21, 2026 for third quarter payments this year. It is also important to note that New Jersey law does not permit the Tax Collector to honor postmarks,

meaning payments must be received by the Tax Collector's Office before the end of the grace period to avoid interest charges.

If your taxes are escrowed through a mortgage company, your statement will be marked "Advice Copy Only." This copy is provided for your records, as the Township also forwards the billing information directly to your mortgage lender.

Continued from page 1

"Too many of our nation's brave Vietnam veterans didn't get the homecoming they deserved either because they were killed in action like Private First Class James Francisco and Specialist 4 Walter Schmidt, or because of politics," Assemblyman Sauickie said this week.

"This measure rightfully honors our heroes and cements the legacy these young men earned in a community that tragically never got to welcome them home."

Said Assemblyman Clifton: "We are incredibly proud that James Leonard Francisco and Walter James Schmidt are products of New Jersey and Laurence Harbor. This memorial will serve as a reminder to the community that we have two local fallen heroes who died for the freedoms we hold dear today and forever deserve our recognition and gratitude."

SILVER LININGS NEWS

By Kristin Agunbiade, Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge Continued from page 12 Catering. With delicious food, tropical entertainments, music, dancing, and wonderful company, it’s the perfect way to celebrate another unforgettable summer.

For dates and times of our programs or more information about Silver Linings of Old Bridge, including how to become a member, visit http://www.oldbridge.com/

silverlinings , call (732) 721-5600, ext. 6600, or stop by for a visit! We are located at 1 Old Bridge Plaza in Old Bridge.

HONORING A LEGACY: 2ND ANNUAL ZACH & JUDE MEMORIAL

3v3 Hoopsfest Returns to Old Bridge.

The Old Bridge community is invited to come together on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the 2nd Annual Zach & Jude Memorial 3v3 Hoopsfest at Geick Park.

Hosted by Old Bridge Hoops Academy (OBHA), the event celebrates the lives and enduring legacy of Zach and Jude Attianese

while raising scholarship funds for local student-athletes. While basketball brings people together, the heart of Hoopsfest is preserving Zach and Jude’s legacy by investing in young people who demonstrate the same character, compassion, and love for community that defined their lives. Every game played, every raffle ticket purchased,

every volunteer who gives their time, and every scholarship awarded reflect the values Zach and Jude embodied— community, generosity, compassion, and a love for others.

Originally launched in 2016 as a back-to-school community celebration, Hoopsfest quickly became a popular local tradition. After a brief pause during the pandemic, the tournament returned in 2025 and once again brought together athletes, families, volunteers, and supporters for a day of competition, fellowship, and giving back. The event also features a Tricky Tray fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the Jude & Zachary Foundation, established in 2018 to honor Zach and Jude’s memory.

The Foundation awards scholarships to student-athletes selected by coaches and community leaders based not only on athletic achievement, but also on character, leadership, sportsmanship, and service to others. “Hoopsfest is about much more than basketball,” said Ian Daley, Program Director of Old Bridge Hoops Academy. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate the lives of Zach and Jude, and support the next generation of young

people through education. The success of this event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Old Bridge Hoops Academy, the Jude & Zachary Foundation, volunteers, officials, sponsors, and community supporters who believe in continuing their remarkable legacy.”

Whether you’re competing, volunteering, supporting the Tricky Tray, or simply enjoying a day of basketball and community, everyone is invited. Join us as we honor two remarkable lives and invest in the next generation of student-athletes. Team registration is now open at www.obhoopsacademy.com. Follow Old Bridge Hoops Academy on Facebook and Instagram for tournament updates and information on upcoming programs and events.